Train Holidays: 5 Epic Train Journeys Around the World

There’s something irresistibly romantic about the rhythmic sway of a train as it glides through breathtaking landscapes. Train holidays capture the golden age of travel while embracing modern comfort — and they’re making a huge comeback. Whether you’re dreaming of snow-dusted Alps, desert sunsets, or royal luxury in India, these five epic train journeys prove that the world’s most beautiful places are best explored on rails.

The Glacier Express – Switzerland’s Scenic Wonder

Dubbed the slowest express train in the world, the Glacier Express winds from Zermatt to St. Moritz through 291 bridges, 91 tunnels, and some of the most dramatic Alpine scenery imaginable. Every window frames a postcard view — snow-capped peaks, emerald valleys, and chocolate-box villages.

Highlights:

• Panoramic glass-domed carriages offering uninterrupted mountain views.
• The Oberalp Pass — the highest point at 2,033 metres above sea level.
• First-class service with multi-course regional dining onboard.

Best Time to Go: Winter is magical with deep snow and festive charm, while summer brings wildflower meadows and turquoise lakes.



Stay: Hotel Steffani, St. Moritz – a family-run classic combining Swiss heritage with spa indulgence.

After exploring Switzerland’s railways, why not plan a wider Alpine escape with Jamie Wake Travel? Our Train Holidays team can combine scenic rail adventures with luxury stays across Europe’s most breathtaking destinations.

The Ghan – Australia’s Red Centre in Motion

Few train holidays offer the sense of scale and solitude found aboard The Ghan. Stretching 1,851 miles between Darwin and Adelaide, this legendary journey cuts straight through the heart of Australia’s Red Centre — a mesmerising mix of ochre deserts, rugged ranges, and timeless Aboriginal culture.

Highlights:

• Stops at Katherine Gorge, Alice Springs, and Coober Pedy (the underground opal town).
• Gourmet dining inspired by the Outback’s flavours — think kangaroo fillet and bush herbs.
• Platinum Service cabins with full ensuite and all-inclusive fine wines.

Best Time to Go: April to October, when the desert air is cooler and the skies blaze blue.

Stay: Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront – perfect pre-departure comfort with lagoon views and easy access to the Ghan terminal.

Ready to see Australia’s vast beauty unfold from your window? Jamie Wake Travel can tailor your Train Holidays itinerary to include city stays in Sydney or Melbourne, or even a Great Barrier Reef finale.

Rocky Mountaineer – Canada’s Mountains in Motion

The Rocky Mountaineer isn’t just a train; it’s a front-row seat to Canada’s most awe-inspiring scenery. Linking Vancouver to Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise, this daylight-only journey showcases the Canadian Rockies in cinematic style.

Highlights:

• Glass-domed GoldLeaf carriages for sweeping mountain and glacier views.
• Fine dining showcasing regional cuisine like Pacific salmon and Alberta beef.
• Expert hosts narrating stories of pioneers, wildlife, and the First Nations.

Best Time to Go: May to October for the best chance of clear mountain views.

Stay: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise – an icon of Canadian luxury overlooking its turquoise namesake lake.

From Vancouver’s coastal charm to Banff’s alpine beauty, our Train Holidays experts at Jamie Wake Travel can craft a Canadian itinerary filled with wonder — and a few luxurious surprises along the way.

Venice Simplon‑Orient‑Express – Europe’s Timeless Luxury

Step aboard history itself on the Venice Simplon‑Orient‑Express, where every polished brass fitting and silk lampshade recalls a bygone era of elegance. Running from London to Venice (and beyond to Prague or Istanbul on special departures), it’s arguably the most famous luxury train in the world.

Highlights:

• Art Deco carriages lovingly restored from the 1920s.
• Black-tie dining in elegant restaurant cars with seasonal menus.
• Venice arrival — gliding into Santa Lucia station as gondolas drift past.

Best Time to Go: Spring or autumn for pleasant European temperatures and fewer crowds.

Stay: Belmond Hotel Cipriani, Venice – unrivalled lagoon views and seamless transfer from the train to your suite.



For travellers who believe the journey matters as much as the destination, Jamie Wake Travel curates Train Holidays that redefine luxury — blending Europe’s finest hotels and rail experiences for a trip you’ll never forget.

Maharajas’ Express – India’s Royal Rails

All aboard India’s most opulent train, where heritage, cuisine, and culture meet royal service. The Maharajas’ Express whisks travellers from Delhi through Rajasthan’s golden cities, Taj Mahal splendour, and tiger-filled reserves.

Highlights:

• Lavishly decorated cabins inspired by India’s royal palaces.
• Off-train excursions to Jaipur, Ranthambore, Agra, and Varanasi.
• Fine dining showcasing Mughlai flavours and live traditional music.

Best Time to Go: October to March, when the weather is mild and the skies clear.

Stay: The Leela Palace New Delhi – a pre-departure palace hotel blending grandeur with contemporary luxury.

Whether you crave India’s colour or Europe’s romance, Jamie Wake Travel’s Train Holidays team can design a bespoke itinerary that fits your rhythm — from private transfers to seamless hotel pairings.

For more itinerary inspiration, check out The Man in Seat 61

Jamie Says:

“There’s a magic to travelling by train — the way landscapes slowly unfold, the comfort of your own private space, and the stories shared with fellow travellers. Train Holidays let you experience the world, not just pass through it.”

Booking with Confidence

When you book your Train Holidays through Jamie Wake Travel, you’re not just getting a journey — you’re getting peace of mind. Every booking is fully ATOL protected, and we include Supplier Failure Insurance for extra reassurance. That means if a travel provider goes out of business, your trip — and your money — are protected.

Plus, with Jamie Wake Travel you’ll always have real people to talk to. We handle the details, from cabin upgrades to connecting flights, so you can focus on the adventure ahead.

Why Book Your Train Holidays with Jamie Wake Travel

At Jamie Wake Travel, we believe no two holidays should ever be the same. Whether you’re craving Europe’s elegance, Canada’s wilderness, or India’s colour, we craft Train Holidays as unique as you are.

With expert advice, 24/7 support, and partnerships with the world’s finest rail operators, we turn your dream journey into reality — seamlessly and safely.

📞 Call us on 01495 400005 or visit our enquiry form to start planning your next adventure. You can also explore our search tool to create bespoke holidays “as unique as you are.”

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